Her Story
About Karis
Karis Loughner is an accomplished Geotechnical Sales and National Renewable Business Development professional based in Greater Houston, Texas. With over a decade of experience across petrochemical, rail, and renewable energy markets, she has built a strong reputation for her work ethic, industry knowledge, and commitment to exceptional customer service.
Currently serving at Industrial Fabrics, Inc., Karis specializes in civil site preparation, geotechnical solutions, and value-engineered approaches that address complex site stabilization challenges. She partners closely with engineers and project teams to deliver practical, durable solutions that drive efficiency and long-term performance on civil construction projects.
Karis began her career in the fuel and lubricants industry, where she quickly advanced from inside to outside sales by mastering industrial applications along the Gulf Coast. Her experience working with petrochemical facilities sparked a deeper interest in industrial and geotechnical solutions, ultimately leading her into civil site work.
Over the years, she has developed expertise in site stabilization, erosion control, and drainage management, consistently providing clients with innovative, results-driven solutions. Beyond her technical work, Karis is passionate about professional networking, mentorship, and creating opportunities for underexposed student athletes through her recruiting business.
Her professional philosophy is grounded in faith, perseverance, and a family-first mindset—believing that long-term success is built through consistency, integrity, and meaningful relationships. Karis continues to expand her impact through leadership, collaboration, and a hands-on approach to solving complex industrial and site challenges.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Karis
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my children and the resilience they inspired in me. Becoming a young mother taught me the importance of hard work, determination, and self-belief. I moved across the country with little support, worked multiple jobs while attending school full-time, and faced challenges that demanded perseverance. My faith in God and in myself has guided me through these obstacles, giving me the strength to pursue my goals, provide for my family, and continue growing both personally and professionally.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Focus on your strengths. Don’t try to carry 20 different things at once. Yes, work on your weaknesses—but don’t let them take all your energy. The things you’re naturally great at? That’s where your real growth and success will come from. Double down on them.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My best advice to young women entering this industry is to never give up on yourself and keep pursuing your goals, even when they feel far out of reach. Each step you take, no matter how small, shapes who you are and who you are becoming. Give yourself grace along the way—there will be moments when you feel behind, but that doesn’t mean you won’t get there. Actions always speak louder than words, so be intentional in what you do, not just what you say. Your choices set the path for your future, and others—especially those who look up to you—are watching, so lead by example.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges in construction today isn’t capability—it’s mindset.
We tend to fall into routine, relying on the same methods and processes because they’re familiar. But staying in that comfort zone can limit growth, efficiency, and innovation.
The reality is, the industry is evolving. New technologies and innovative approaches are creating opportunities to streamline operations, reduce costs, and hit deadlines more effectively.
Those willing to think differently and embrace change won’t just keep up—they’ll lead.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are my relationship with God, hard work, perseverance, and empathy. I believe in the importance of family and leading by example, always following through with action rather than just words. These principles guide the decisions I make, the goals I pursue, and the way I interact with others.
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